When it comes to houseplants, few are as popular as the Monstera Deliciosa plant. Also known as the Swiss cheese plant, this tropical plant is known for its large, glossy leaves. Monstera plants are easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners. However, like all plants, they will eventually outgrow their pot and need to be repotted. Here’s everything you need to know about how to repot your monstera plant, including when to do it and how to do it.
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A brief introduction to the Monstera Deliciosa
The Monstera Deliciosa is a species of flowering plant that is native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. Its shiny, oversized leaves can grow up to three feet long and are often used in tropical-style floral arrangements.
This plant was originally discovered and described by a Swedish botanist named Carl Linnaeus way back in 1753. But it wasn't until the early 1800s that the Monstera Deliciosa was brought over to Europe and started making a splash. In fact, Victorian England was particularly taken with this plucky houseplant!
Nowadays, you can find the Monstera Deliciosa growing all over the place in tropical areas across the globe. Whether you're looking to add some lush greenery to your home or just want to admire the beauty of this stunning plant, there's no doubt that the Monstera Deliciosa is bound to turn heads and steal hearts wherever it grows.
Why repot your Monstera plant?
A monstera plant will need to be repotted when it has outgrown its current pot. You’ll know it’s time to repot when you see roots coming out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. The plant may also start to look top-heavy or unstable.
Repotting not only gives the plant more room to grow, but it also allows you to refresh the potting mix. This is important because over time, the potting mix will break down and no longer provide the plant with the nutrients it needs.
When to Repot a Monstera Plant
The best time to repot a monstera plant is in the spring, before the plant’s growing season begins. This will give the plant time to adjust to its new pot and potting mix before it starts putting out new growth.
If you can’t repot in the spring, the next best time is early summer. Avoid repotting in the fall or winter, as this can shock the plant and cause it to go into dormancy.
How to Repot your Monstera Plant
When repotting a monstera plant, it’s important to use a pot that is only slightly larger than the current pot. A pot that is too large will hold too much moisture, which can lead to root rot.
Choose a pot with drainage holes in the bottom and fill it with a high-quality potting mix. Monstera plants prefer a potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
To repot the plant, gently remove it from its current pot. Carefully loosen the roots and remove any loose or dead leaves. Place the plant in the new pot and fill in around it with potting mix. Firm the mix gently around the plant and water well.
Place the repotted plant in a bright, indirect light location and water as needed to keep the potting mix moist but not soggy.
After a few weeks, you can resume your normal watering schedule.
Monstera plants are fast-growing, so they will need to be repotted every one to two years. When repotting, you can either move the plant up to a pot that is one size larger or divide the plant and pot it up into multiple smaller pots.
If you decide to divide the plant, wait until it is actively growing in the spring. Gently remove the plant from its pot and carefully divide the root ball into two or three sections. Each section should have several leaves and at least one stem.
Pot each section up into its own pot, using a high-quality potting mix. Water well and place the plants in a bright, indirect light location. After a few weeks, you can resume your normal watering schedule.
Monstera plants are relatively easy to care for, but they will need to be repotted every one to two years. By following these tips, you can ensure that your plant stays healthy and continues to thrive.
Products that help keep my Monstera healthy and happy.
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix
With the Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, I also add in my own mix of natural elements like dried banana peels, coffee grinds and egg shells. The Miracle Grow gives me a base while the others help my plants strive. It also helps save money on buying a lot of soil!
Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruning Snips
If you are looking for a nice quality pair of gardening shears, you should definitely consider purchasing a pair of these. The Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruning Snips are made with stainless steel blades that stay sharp. Designed to provide a comfortable and precise grip, these pruning snips are ideal for those with arthritis or limited hand strength. They are also very sharp and can easily cut through tough materials.
Mad Grip Palm Gloves
Mad Grip Palm Gloves are my favorite pair of gloves for everyday gardening. The Pro Palm offers unmatched dexterity that allows for all day comfort. The grip combined with cushioning on the palm prevents blistering and hand fatigue while maintaining maximum control of the task at hand.
They are also breathable and absorbent, so your hands will stay cool and dry even on the hottest days. And because they are made of bamboo, they are naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal.
If you are looking for a pair of gloves that will last you for years and that will make your gardening experience more enjoyable, then you need to buy a pair of Mad Grip Palm Gloves.
Tips to leave you with
Ha, I couldn't help myself with the corny pun but hey, it works! Here are a couple of tips for maintaining a healthy Monstera.
1. Place your Monstera Deliciosa in a spot with bright, indirect light.
2. Water your Monstera Deliciosa when the top inch of soil is dry.
3. Feed your Monstera Deliciosa monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
4. Support your Monstera Deliciosa's climbing vines by attaching them to a trellis or other support.
5. Prune your Monstera Deliciosa regularly to encourage new growth and to keep it looking tidy.
6. Watch for signs of pests or disease and treat accordingly.
7. Bring your Monstera Deliciosa indoors for the winter in colder climates.
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